The Arts at USU: January Events Preview

This January, the Caine College of the Arts is hosting a diverse array of musical and artistic events that promise to inspire and engage the entire community. From world-class performances by faculty, students and guest artists, to unique opportunities for hands-on involvement and exploration, there’s something for everyone.Read below for more details about these coming events, and subscribe to the weekly events reminder email.

Utah Symphony in Logan Brahms' Violin Concerto with Augustin Hadelich

Jan. 9, 8 p.m.

Daines Concert Hall

The Caine College of the Arts is thrilled to present the Utah Symphony for a special one-night-only performance, bringing world-class artistry to Logan right here in the heart of our campus. Enjoy an unforgettable evening of breathtaking live music with this unique opportunity—free for all USU students, faculty, and staff, and only $10 for the general public.

Don’t miss this chance to experience the symphonic beauty of the Utah Symphony, exclusively brought to you by the Caine College of the Arts!

EVENT OVERVIEW:

The breathtaking Brahms Violin Concerto showcases the full range of the violin, from tender lyricism to exhilarating virtuosity. Augustin Hadelich, regarded as one of today’s top violinists, brings detailed nuance to this work, and highly sought-after conductor Elim Chan leads the intricate interplay between soloist and orchestra.

Immerse yourself in the dreamlike melodies of Ogonek’s Moondog, representing the silver halo around the moon, and embrace the rich tapestry of Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances, the last work he ever composed. Hear echoes of Rachmaninoff’s past compositions, woven into the fabric of the music like hidden gems. These nostalgic references add to the depth, inviting you to uncover the composer’s musical legacy with each passing phrase.

Made possible by the Tanner Trust for Utah Universities.

Year of Undergraduate Research Exhibition

Jan. 13–24, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.

Tippetts & Eccles Galleries

In celebration of 50 years of the undergraduate research program at Utah State University, the Office of Research presents a landmark exhibition showcasing the innovative work of undergraduate researchers across all disciplines. From microscopy images to engineering prototypes, artistic interpretations to scientific specimens, this curated collection demonstrates how undergraduate research at USU has impacted student lives and our understanding of the world since 1975.

USU Opera: The Rape of Lucretia

Jan. 17, 7:30 p.m.

Jan. 19, 4 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

The chamber opera "The Rape of Lucretia" by English composer Benjamin Britten narrates the tragic mytho-historical story of the faithful Lucretia and the events leading to her assault by Prince Tarquinius, the errant son of a pre-Republic Roman tyrant.

A masterpiece of the operatic literature, this piece was instrumental in ushering in a new golden age of English opera in the mid-20th century. Performed by USU voice and orchestra students in the Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall, Jan. 17, 7:30 p.m. and Jan. 19, 4 p.m. Guest directed by Vanessa Ballam, conducted by Maestro Daniel Wachs.

Chamber Music Society of Logan presents Third Coast Percussion

Jan. 21, 7:30 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

In celebration of 20 years of genre-defying, award-winning music, Third Coast Percussion, a GRAMMY® Award-winning Chicago-based percussion quartet and GRAMMY®-nominated composer collective, takes the stage for an exhilarating evening of musical possibilities. This program highlights several of the ensemble's 20th Anniversary commissions, including a new piece by renowned composer Jessie Montgomery; a work by J.S. Bach reimagined by electronic music innovator and recent Pulitzer Prize finalist Jlin; and Sonata for Percussion by acclaimed jazz pianist Tigran Hamasyan. As the first percussion ensemble to win a GRAMMY®, Third Coast Percussion has continued to push percussion in new directions, “blurring musical boundaries and captivating new listeners,” according to NPR. Their groundbreaking work continues to redefine the genre and captivate audiences worldwide.

Music Box Concert Series presents Low Brass Instrument: Tuba

Jan. 25, 11 a.m.

FAC 104

Parents, do you have children who are too young to attend a concert? The Music Box Concert Series is for YOU!

Music Box Concerts are FREE for children and accompanying adults. Each concert features an outstanding USU student ensemble that will highlight one instrumental family.

Current research shows that hearing and “good ears” develop in early childhood. That’s why these special concerts are designed for ages 0-8. Older children are welcome too. Performances are casual, interactive, and brief with listening, movement, and singing activities to draw attention to musical concepts. After the concert children will have an opportunity to interact with the musicians and look closely or even touch the featured instruments. These concerts are a wonderful introduction to classical music.

Music Therapy Senior Gala

Jan. 25, 7 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

Help us celebrate the hard-earned skills and many talents of our music therapy seniors at this unique final jury event. Seniors will be showcasing their musicality, knowledge, and capacity on a variety of instruments while being featured on a program of clinical songs they have memorized in collaborations with their peers. The unique and exciting twist of this jury is that the program will not be known to the performers until the event begins!

Jazz Jams

Jan. 29, 7 p.m.

TSC Hub Stage

This concert will feature the Caine Jazz Combo, a guest artist, and jazz students from the Music Department performing standard jazz tunes. The jam session is open to everyone, and attendees are encouraged to bring their instruments and join in. Jam sessions take place on the Hub Stage on the first floor of the Taggart Student Center, near the food court.

MUSES

Jan. 30, 7:30 p.m.

Russell/Wanlass Performance Hall

The word "muse" describes a source of inspiration. This annual music therapy concert aims to highlight the multi-faceted sources of inspiration for USU music therapy students both personally and professionally. In our field of study, we often talk about “self as instrument”, or rather, being the instrument of change within the therapeutic relationship. During MUSES, we get to shift our focus to also celebrate our external musical skills and instruments as extensions of ourselves, and the tools by which we get to share creative self-expression with the world. Concert goers will enjoy original compositions in addition to contemporary and classical pieces that have been intentionally chosen to represent the experiences of our students and potential clinical applications of these works in music therapy practice. Additionally, attendees may have the opportunity to get involved first-hand with our interactive lobby experience before the performance. For more information, visit www.usumtsa.weebly.com.